During the 2012 NFL Draft, one name that was tossed around by many BTSC peeps as a potential late round pick that may one day replace Casey Hampton, was Hebron Fangupo. When the Steelers drafted Ta'amu late in the 4th round, Fangupo was all but forgotten. I just noticed that today on the salary cap post that he was under contract. Sure enough, the Steelers quietly signed him, which resulted in a little more than a blurb on the net. With Hampton's age/lack of contract, McLendon's lack of playing time, and Ta'amu's legal issue; this could be a good move.

Many predicted Fangupo could go as early as round 5, but he ended up not getting drafted. He signed with Houston and Seattle, but only made it to their practice squad. He did not dress in one single game.

A Nose Tackle in a 3-4, especially Pittsburgh's scheme, requires a special skill set. If Fangupo can train and condition himself in the off-season, he may have a shot to get a helmet next season. I think this is a great tire-kicking move.